Essential Oils of Eternal Japan – part 2: Sugi and Yuzu By Gabriel Mojay, LAc
- Aromatika Magazine
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
Pg. 6-11 - 6-minute read
In my previous article on the essential oils of Japan, I reflected on my long-standing connection with the country’s traditional healing and botanical traditions. My journey into natural health began in 1978 through the teachings of macrobiotic pioneer Michio Kushi, while my love for aromatics blossomed several years later during herbal medicine studies. Working at the original Neal’s Yard Apothecary in London and training in acupuncture and Shiatsu deepened my appreciation for combining essential oils with Traditional Chinese Medicine, a fusion that has shaped much of my clinical and teaching work ever since.
My visit to Japan in April 2026 was both a teaching engagement and a celebration of Japanese aromatics. Accompanied by colleagues Reiko Tomino and Irene Veronica Yap, I travelled to the mountainous Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture to visit the distillery of Jyuhachinich Ltd. There, we were warmly welcomed by CEO Aya Horiki and guide Yoshimichi “Yo-Chan” Hoshi, who introduced us to his ancestral land rich in medicinal and aromatic plants. Witnessing the distillation of freshly harvested Sugi (Cryptomeria japonica) and receiving samples of the newly distilled essential oil and hydrosol was a memorable highlight of the journey.
Another special experience was visiting the Aroma Environment Association of Japan (AEAJ) at its beautiful Green Terrace headquarters in Tokyo. Hosted by AEAJ President Dr. Chizu Kumagai, we toured the impressive facility and explored an exhibition showcasing 200 essential oils distilled from aromatic plants across Japan. The visit reinforced the remarkable diversity and quality of Japanese essential oils. Later, we immersed ourselves in the sensory richness of traditional Japanese culture through a performance at the renowned Kabuki Theatre, adding another dimension to our appreciation of Japan’s artistic and aromatic heritage.
My Tokyo seminar explored a range of Japanese essential oils, with particular attention to Sugi and Yuzu. Sugi, a revered conifer deeply rooted in Japanese culture and Shinto mythology, produces an oil rich in compounds associated with stress resilience, relaxation, antimicrobial activity, and musculoskeletal support. Yuzu, a cherished citrus introduced from China over a millennium ago, is prized for both its culinary and therapeutic value. Rich in limonene, Yuzu essential oil has demonstrated calming effects on the nervous system, mood-enhancing properties, digestive benefits, and potential support for blood sugar regulation. Together, these oils exemplify the unique intersection of tradition, culture, ecology, and wellness found within Japan’s aromatic landscape.
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